laughing gas

noun

1. nitrous oxide.

laughing gas

noun

1. another name for nitrous oxide

laughing gas

/ lăf′ĭng /

1. Nitrous oxide used as a mild anesthetic.

Word History and Origins

Origin of laughing gas¹

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

Possession of nitrous oxide - also known as laughing gas or NOS - for recreational use has been a criminal offence in the United Kingdom since 2023 and can result in a two-year prison sentence.

From BBC

Police make arrests in crackdown on 'laughing gas'

From BBC

Eutrophication and acidification are some of the environmental problems that can be traced to the use of ammonia -- as well as emissions of laughing gas, which is a very potent greenhouse gas.

From Science Daily

The government has made possession of nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, a criminal offence in England and Wales.

From BBC

Intensive, frequent use of laughing gas can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency which can cause neurological damage, scientific studies suggest.

From BBC